Founded in the 1920’s, the Women’s Athletic Club of Chicago was the first of its kind in the United States, and is an architectural treasure along the city’s Magnificent Mile. However, the original dumbwaiter equipment had been installed in the 1950’s and rising maintenance costs were quickly draining their budget.

The kitchen staff was having to travel a long way to deliver food when the dumbwaiter was not operational, which in turn was creating more work, increasing the risk of workplace accidents, and causing lots of inefficiencies within the building.

Providing a unique solution

Matot was asked to partner with Parkway Elevators of Chicago to modernize the dumbwaiter and help them reduce costs. Matot devised a unique side-by-side machine room design to replace the original old double drum machine.

This creative solution fit seamlessly within the tight space restrictions of the existing historical building, reducing installation costs and minimizing changes to the historic structure.

The modern dumbwaiter equipment increased the efficiency of the kitchen staff, reduced the risk of workplace accidents and significantly reduced their monthly maintenance costs.

The professionally installed double dumbwaiter units with new cars were a dramatic improvement over the old dumbwaiter doors, and added a state-of-the-art stylish look to the interior of the Club.

Matot is proud to have assisted with a project for such a historic building in our own hometown.